Lida Lewis
PASSIONATE DESIGNER
EDUCATOR | THOUGHT LEADER
Alexandria Residence 1
In Alexandria I had the opportunity to work with a home to plan not just the interior condo renovations, but also the exterior garden planning. The condo board requires documentation be submitted for either, and planning for both interior and exterior space has provided perspective on what to do with each respective separate area.
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The existing space, while in good condition, had not been renovated for several decades. Thus, existing laminate counters, older appliances, many finishes, and an underdeveloped backyard and front flower bed were all targets for upgrades.
First mapping the existing conditions, planning the rear and front yard included designing the overall layout, as well as planning for foliage which would bloom throughout the spring, summer, and fall--and provide some pops of interest in winter. An elevated deck design will allow the platform of the deck to work well with the nearby remote tree's root system, and provide both a casual seating and hammock area for rest and relaxation.
Within the home, the addition of a combination of weathered painted reclaimed wood, new crown molding and trim, and a new paint scheme are planned to complement the existing, 1940s original parquet hardwood flooring. A built in element in the living room will conceal the existing in wall HVAC unit, and provide a new gas fireplace focal point for the living room area. In the kitchen, new appliances, a new penny round tile floor, tile backsplash and quartz countertop, and new extensions to the upper cabinets will enhance the existing repainted upper cabinetry and refinished lower cabinets.
On the second floor, a rearrangement of the already renovated restroom on the 2nd floor will provide a separate toilet "room" and expanded vanity. New finishes and a new built in storage unit in the master bedroom will expand the capacity of the existing small closet. In the smallest bedroom, a space comfortably large for visiting guests with a queen bed provide a welcoming respite. The mid sized bedroom, while still large enough to accommodate a queen bed, will be outfitted to create a small in home office.
